It’s a huge claim to make: being Hawaii’s favorite band. But back in the 1980s, nobody could touch the Fabulous Krush.
Honolulu entertainment writer John Berger once described The Krush as ”charismatic, dynamic and superbly talented,” a band that gave its audience “good, clean fun and a happy wholesome entertainment” with every performance.
Hawaii's The Krush throughout the years
Instant success
Krush won two Na Hoku awards in 1981—the quickest way to ensure instant success—Best Album of the Year and Most Promising Artist.
Five days following the 4th annual Na Hoku Hanohano awards, the Fabulous Krush launched straight to the top of Hawaii’s music scene. Their biggest
An evolving act
Like I mentioned earlier this week, the Krush went through several transformation before finally dropping “Fabulous” from their name:
- The Exotic 5, a humble North Shore act from Waialua
- New Experience, a “marginally successful cover band”
- Fabulous Krush, featuring the addition of Glass Candle’s Bobby Gonzales
- The Krush, a name change that coincided with the evolution of the band’s rock sound
The Fabulous Krush
How the band was formed
The Krush began in 1977 when Yemun Chung, one of Hawaii’s top talent managers and booking agents, created a simple formula:
- Hire the marginally successful cover band New Experience
- Add Bobby Gonzales of Glass Candle
- Debut a new show band, the Fabulous Krush.
Rising stars
Despite a near constant rotation of members, the Fabulous Krush shot straight to the top, fast.
Their biggest gig in Hawaii? A headliner act at the Outrigger Hotel’s main showroom (they shared the space with the Society Of Seven).
A new direction
Manager Chung resigned and retired from show business, giving the Krush to make their own destiny.
Moving away from pop material and into a louder and more rock-oriented sound, the Krush eventually outgrew their Outrigger showroom.
The Fabulous Krush continued their successful career with mainland performances, sold-out concerts, and TV appearances like the Mike Douglas Show.
Saying Goodbye to The Krush
Lead singer Edwin Ramones left the group in 1987 with plans to live on the mainland with his wife and sons.
Without an official public annoucement, the Fabulous Krush disbanded.
Hawaii’s Favorite Band
Over the years, various Krush members would reunite with the same mission of bringing happiness and good, clean fun to the dance floor—it’s what makes them Hawaii’s favorite band.
Check out one of my favorite Krush cover songs, “Blame It On The Night.”
